Highly efficient and simultaneously catalytic removal of PM and NOx from diesel engines with 3DOM Ce0.8M0.1Zr0.1O2 (M = Mn, Co, Ni) catalysts

- Simultaneous removal of PM and NOx is performed on a single 3DOM catalyst.
- 3DOM Ce0.8Mn0.1Zr0.1O2 shows excellent activities for simultaneous abatement.
- Doped Mn improves surface reducibility and produces abundant of oxygen vacancies.
- The introduction of Mn promotes the adsorption and activation of NH3.

A novel catalytic purification process over a 3DOM catalyst, called SCRPF (Selective Catalytic Reduction and Particulate Filter), was designed and employed for the simultaneous removal of PM (particulates matter) and NOx from diesel engine exhausts. This process combines the advantages of the DPF and SCR of NOx reduction processes. The catalytic purification process occurring over a SCRPF reactor is cost-efficient. The contact between solid PM and the catalyst active site has been intensified by the unique 3DOM structure. 3DOM Ce0.8Mn0.1Zr0.1O2 catalyst provided the maximum concentration of CO2 at 402 °C for PM combustion and showed excellent NH3-SCR performance in the 374-512 °C temperature range. The specific 3DOM architecture, high Ce3+/Ce4+ ratio and amount of chemisorbed oxygen species, good low-temperature reducibility as well as the abundant of acid sites are responsible for the excellent catalytic efficiency of Ce0.8Mn0.1Zr0.1O2 sample used for the simultaneous removal of PM and NOx from diesel engines. The use of an inexpensive catalyst may make the practical application of this process more advantageous.

The novel SCRPF combining catalyst path is an efficient and economical way to purify PM and NOx from diesel engines. 3DOM Ce0.8Mn0.1Zr0.1O2 catalyst possesses unique macroporous structure, abundant oxygen, low-temperature reducibility and proper acid site. It gives the surprising highly catalytic activity for the simultaneous removal of PM and NOx.99